SPRINGDALE (KFSM) – Following several complaints, the City of Springdale decided to make a change to its smoking policy for employees.
Gina Lewis, Springdale’s Director of Human Resources, said the change was made in order to help improve the image of the city.
“We have got a couple complaints of people who have seen employees smoking as they are coming into buildings,” Lewis said.
The new policy now prohibits city employees from smoking in public during business hours.
Employees are allowed to smoke privately in designated smoking areas, and during lunch breaks away from city property.
“As long as they are on break, they are ok to be smoking. As long as they are not in public during working hours,” Lewis said.
Springdale already enforces the Arkansas Clean Air Act, which prohibits smoking inside city buildings and vehicles.
The Arkansas Clean Air Act is a law. This new addition is a policy, not law.
Some said the new rule will help the city look better.
“I think it is very unprofessional. Not only does it make a bad image for yourself, but it’s a bad image for society,” said Hailey Hendrix, a supporter of the policy change. “I feel like, if it is something that needs to be done for your job, it is something that needs to be stopped.”
However, some said the new policy is invasive.
“It’s a freedom. It’s a right,” said Marion Hemphill, who isn’t in favor of the policy. “Smoking is a part of life. Some people do it, some people don’t. Nobody should have to hide, especially when they pay taxes.”
Springdale officials said the new policy will be enforced, and record will be made of anyone who ignores the rules.
“Repeat offending could end up with progressive discipline. Up to, or including, termination,” Lewis said.